Cortical sensory processing across motivational states during goal-directed behavior

Behavioral states can influence performance of goal-directed sensorimotor tasks. Yet, it is unclear how altered neuronal sensory representations in these states relate to task performance and learning. We trained water-restricted mice in a two-whisker discrimination task to study cortical circuits underlying perceptual de-cision-making under different levels of thirst. We identified somatosensory cortices as well as the premotor cortex as part of the circuit necessary for task execution. Two-photon calcium imaging in these areas iden-tified populations selective to sensory or motor events. Analysis of task performance during individual ses-sions revealed distinct behavioral states induced by decreasing levels of thirst-related motivation. Learning was better explained by improvements in motivational state control rather than sensorimotor association. Whisker sensory representations in the cortex were altered across behavioral states. In particular, whisker stimuli could be better decoded from neuronal activity during high task performance states, suggesting that state-dependent changes of sensory processing influence decision-making.

Automated summary

Behavioral states have an impact on the performance and learning of sensorimotor tasks, and this is related to altered neuronal sensory representations. In a study using water-restricted mice, it was found that cortical circuits and state-dependent sensory processing changes play a role in perceptual decision-making.